Taking Your Ferret Home

Choosing a Ferret Cage

There are lots of things to think about when you first take a new ferret home. The first thing you need to do is to choose the best location for your ferret’s cage. Keep in mind that the area you choose will be the place where your pet will spend most of its time. Ensure that the space is comfortable and safe. There are lots of choices available for ferret cages so be sure to pick one that gives your pet room to run around. Be sure to get some soft bedding for the cage so your ferret’s home is comfortable and he is not in danger of hurting himself. Consider a ferret cage that has a plastic bottom as they will be easier to clean. Metal-bottomed cages will rust and start to look shabby after several cleanings. However, if you do purchase plastic coated metal make sure that your ferret isn’t chewing the coating off. If they swallow bits of plastic that can cause an intestinal blockage. The cage should have various levels and good size doors. Large doors will stop your ferret from getting stuck while trying to get out.

Why Should You Get a Ferret Hammock

Ferrets sleep between 15 and 20 hours a day, so be sure to purchase some sleeping sacks and hammocks to make them more comfortable. You’ll need to ferret-proof the room too, because your ferret will need to spend a couple of hours every day outside of their cage.

Picking Ferret Toys

Toys help your ferret to be active and happy. Be very careful about the kinds of ferret toys you buy because a poor choice could put your little pal’s life in danger. Ferrets have very sharp teeth so select sturdy toys. Cat toys can be a good option. Avoid any foam or plastic toys that can be easily damaged. It’s best no to leave any toys in the cage if you’re not there to supervise. If your ferret eats a piece of a toy it can easily result in an obstruction that will need to be surgically removed.

Ferret Odor

Ferrets are part of the Mustelid family, which includes weasels, badgers, otters, etc., and so they have an odor. You should consider scheduling an appointment with your veterinarian to have your ferret neutered and de-scented. Most likely both procedures can be done at the same time. Be sure to carefully follow your veterinarian’s instructions for caring for your pet after these procedures. Be sure to get your ferret the vaccinations they need and regular examinations as well. Most kits (baby ferrets) have only had their first series of shots when you purchase them. Make sure you know what shots they received and when so you can inform your vet. Once the first series of distemper shots are complete your ferret will only need the shot annually. Booster shots will be needed, too. Be sure to set up a schedule with the veterinarian.

The Right Ferret Diet

High quality food is needed to assure your ferret’s health. Make sure the food you have chosen is not made from frozen meat. You should always find out what brand of food your ferret was being fed before you brought it home. If you’re changing the type or brand of food, do it slowly buy mixing small amounts of the new food with the old food and slowly increasing the amount of the new food while decreasing the old one.

Should You Give Your Ferret Treats

Ferrets really don’t need snacks, however, if you decide to give them some, always choose healthy treats like cooked eggs and meat. Candies and sugary treats are harmful to your ferret.
Preparing for the arrival of your newly adopted ferret well in advance will ensure that your new pet remains healthy and happy.